Can Meth Cause Seizures?

Meth can be extremely harmful to your health. But, can meth cause seizures?

Meth use in the United States has increased dramatically in recent years. The effects meth has on the body and the brain can be drastic, and affect everyday life for those who struggle with the drug. It can lead to long-lasting and detrimental effects on physical and cognitive function, as well as impacts on day-to-day life if meth use is continued.

The decision to find meth detox and pursue addiction recovery can be affected by understanding the impact meth can have on the mind and body.

What is Meth?

Methamphetamine, or meth for short, is a drug that is a part of the stimulant class. It is a Schedule II drug, meaning that it has some medical use as well as a high probability of abuse. It is derived from amphetamine and has similar effects such as increased talkativeness, appetite suppression, increased activity, and a sense of euphoria. However, compared to amphetamine, when meth is used greater amounts of the drug are entered into the brain, making it more potent.

Originally, methamphetamine was created for use in nasal decongestants and inhalers. As of late, the medical uses for methamphetamine are to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and occasionally play a part in weight loss medications. In these treatment forms, the doses of the drug are dramatically less than what is being used on the streets.

Is Meth Addictive?

Meth can definitely be addictive. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the tolerance that builds toward the euphoric feeling produced by meth can lead to addiction to the drug. When meth is abused, it can cause users to need more and more of the drug in order to achieve the same effects that the drug initially produced.

However, when the desired effects wear off, what is left? Paranoia, anxiety, and depression can remain. Leading users right back to the drug that caused the exacerbation of these feelings, to begin with. It’s almost as if they are self-medicating to alleviate the feelings and emotions. This can make it extremely difficult to break the cycle without having professional help to manage the symptoms that arise once the drug is taken away.

Long- and Short-Term Effects of Meth

Long-term meth use can lead to different effects, both long and short-term, that can have harmful effects on the body. Increased anxiety, confusion, mood changes, insomnia, and violent behavior can be effects of abusing meth. Others can include paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions. These effects can last for months or years once the drug is stopped. Both cognitive and motor functionality can also be affected by long-term meth use.

Using meth can cause sores, dental decay, and severe weight loss. Getting help for meth addiction as soon as possible can help to prevent some of these symptoms, and reverse some of the other effects.

How Meth Affects the Brain

Meth use can alter the brain’s chemistry. The production of dopamine in the brain is altered when using meth, and long-term use can make it difficult to reverse these chemical changes. According to research, meth can affect decision-making and behaviors that were once a part of daily life.

Meth use can also affect microglia in the brain. Too much activity within the microglia can cause an assault on healthy neurons within the brain. Motor function is vital to being able to live a healthy and happy life. When meth affects these functions, it can be hard to perform everyday functions. The changes in the brain can lead someone to ask themselves if meth can cause seizures.

Using meth can lead to addiction, requiring more and more of the drug. When this happens, it can lead to overdose. Meth overdose can lead to seizures. This can lead to death. Seizures can be dangerous for anyone who has them. Even the most minor of seizures can have long-lasting damage. They can cause heat stroke, which in turn can lead to organ failure.

Seizures can also lead to memory loss. Seizures can take a toll on the body. Proper care can help to keep the effects minimal and treat effects that can be more detrimental in the long run.

Get Help for Meth Addiction in Nashville, TN

Addiction to meth can be dangerous. If you or a loved one struggles with meth addiction and wants to begin a drug-free life, there is help. There is hope for being able to live a better life. Here at Brentwood Springs, our team offers help to those struggling with addiction. Our team of professionals is available to help guide you through the beginning process of finding recovery. Contact us today.